[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 111 (Friday, June 25, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E700]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF PASTOR ALPHONSO HAMILTON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KAREN BASS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 25, 2021

  Ms. BASS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Pastor 
Alphonso Hamilton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and 
community leader, who passed away on October 19, 2020. A celebration of 
Pastor Hamilton's life is taking place on June 26, 2021, for his 92nd 
birthday.
  Born on June 26, 1929 in Shamrock, Florida, Pastor Hamilton became a 
follower of Christ early in his life at Shamrock Missionary Baptist 
Church. After serving in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953, 
Pastor Hamilton attended Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina and 
received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Chemistry and 
General Science. Pastor Hamilton would also earn a Master of Science in 
Education from Madison College in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
  Pastor Hamilton would go on to teach high school Biology, Chemistry 
and General Science. During his time teaching high school, he would 
also serve as the head coach of the basketball team for Booker T. 
Washington and Robert E. Lee High Schools for 11 years, with a record 
of eight district championships, two state championships, and a 174-57 
record. After 34 impactful years as an educator and coach, Pastor 
Hamilton retired in 1989.
  Pastor Hamilton then served for over 26 years at the First Church of 
God in Christ in Staunton, Virginia. Pastor Hamilton began as assistant 
pastor, followed by pastor in 2014. During his tenure, Pastor Hamilton 
also served as church musician, Sunday School teacher, and other 
important roles.
  I celebrate the life of Pastor Alphonso Hamilton and thank him for 
his incredible service and devotion to his community.

                          ____________________